AutosMarket - Content Standards & Templates

Section 01

Pillar vs. Cluster - What's the Difference?

Every article on AutosMarket belongs to one of two types. Knowing which type you're writing changes how broad or deep you go.

🏛 Pillar Article

A broad, authoritative guide that covers a topic comprehensively. It's the "home base" page for a subject - the article someone should find when they search the widest version of a topic.

Length: 1,800–2,500 words
Depth: Wide coverage - defines the topic, covers major subtopics, links out to cluster articles for deeper dives
Examples: "Car Maintenance 101: Everything You Need to Know", "The Complete Guide to Car Insurance in the US", "Understanding Car Financing: What Every US Buyer Should Know", "New Car vs Used Car: How to Decide"
Keyword: Broad head-term or mid-tail keyword

🔗 Cluster Article

A focused article that goes deep on one subtopic within a pillar's territory. It answers a specific question or covers a narrow angle thoroughly, then links back to the pillar.

Length: 1,000–1,500 words
Depth: Narrow and thorough - one topic, one question, one angle done well
Examples: "Must-Have Car Accessories", "How to Read a Car Window Sticker", "Tire Rotation: What the Rotation Patterns Actually Mean"
Keyword: Long-tail or specific question keyword

🔄

How they connect: A pillar article links out to 4–8 cluster articles within its body text (naturally, via anchor text - not a "see also" list). Each cluster article links back to its pillar once. This two-way linking is what builds topical authority and tells Google that AutosMarket's content on a topic is comprehensive.

ℹ️

Pillar and cluster are a content strategy, not a URL structure. All articles live at the same URL depth on the blog (e.g. autosmarket.com/blog/article-slug/). The pillar and cluster labels only describe how articles relate to each other internally - they are invisible to readers and have no bearing on how the CMS publishes them.

📐

Some cluster topics may still need pillar-level depth. If a cluster subtopic is broad enough to have its own cluster articles beneath it (e.g. "AWD Tire Rotation", "FWD Tire Rotation"), treat it as a pillar and use the Pillar Prompt. There is no rule that says a cluster must always be short - use the format that matches the scope of the topic.

Section 02

Article Structure - Full Wireframe

The section order every AutosMarket article follows, from top to bottom. Structure signals are read by both humans and search engines.

Article section order - applies to both pillar and cluster

Featured Image

Required. Always first. Primary car, category, or topic visual. Alt text must include the primary keyword. Must

H1 Title

The article title. Includes primary keyword. Year included for evergreen topics. 65 characters max. Must

The Lede

2 sentences. Answers the title immediately. No scene-setting openers. No "In this article…" This is the content Google AI Overviews extract. Must

H2 Sections

3–7 H2 sections depending on article type and topic. Pillar articles: 5–7 sections. Cluster articles: 3–5 sections. Section count should match the topic - never pad, never force. Must

Images

Placed within or after alternating H2 sections - sections 1, 3, and 5. Not after every section. Total: 2–4 images across the article. Should

Key Takeaways

Before FAQ. 3–5 bullet points summarising the article's most useful findings. Written as practical, actionable statements the reader can act on immediately. Must

FAQ Section

H2 "Frequently Asked Questions" - always this exact heading. 3–5 Q+A pairs addressing the most-searched questions about the topic. Required for AIO eligibility. Placed at the end, after Key Takeaways. Must

📏

Word count targets: Cluster articles: 1,000–1,500 words (avg 1,200). Pillar articles: 1,800–2,500 words (avg 2,000). These are targets - if a topic is fully covered at 1,000 words, don't pad to 1,100. If a pillar topic genuinely needs 2,400 words, don't cut it short. The topic drives the length.

Section 03

The H1 - Title Rules

The title must match how people actually search - not how we'd describe the topic internally.

Rules

Include the primary keyword exactly as it would appear in a Google search
Avoid years in titles. Write for longevity - titles without a year stay relevant and avoid looking stale when the year turns. Years are occasionally acceptable in a sub-title or parenthetical when the content is genuinely time-bound (e.g. a round-up of new tech), but the default should be a timeless title. Years can appear naturally inside the article body as examples or data points.
Keep it 65 characters or fewer so it displays in full on search results pages
For how-to and explainer articles, a subtitle format works well: "What Is Ceramic Coating and Is It Worth It?" or "How to Read a Car Window Sticker"
For comparison articles, name both cars in the title: "Kia Sportage vs VW Tiguan"
No clickbait. The title must describe exactly what the article delivers.

Article Type	Title Format	Example
Pillar	Complete guide / 101 format	Car Maintenance 101: The Complete Guide for US Drivers
Pillar	Broad evergreen question	How to Buy a Used Car: A Guide for US Buyers
Cluster	Specific how-to	How to Read a Car Window Sticker
Cluster	Product round-up (timeless)	12 Must-Have Car Accessories for Every Driver
Cluster	Explainer	What Is Ceramic Coating and Is It Worth It?

Section 04

The Lede - Your First 2 Sentences

The lede is the most important content in the article. It's the first thing a reader sees and the part that AI systems extract as the answer to the query.

What a lede is

The lede answers the article's core question immediately and directly - before any background, before any context, before any introduction. Sentence 1 delivers the key finding or recommendation. Sentence 2 adds a qualifier, contrast, or preview of what follows.

The lede works for every article type - not just comparisons. For a how-to guide, it states what the guide covers and who it's for. For a product round-up, it names the top pick and the buying principle. For an explainer, it states the core fact the article unpacks.

Write the lede last. After completing the full article draft, you'll know the strongest, most specific finding. Two sentences capturing that will always be better than two sentences written before you know what the article says.

Example - Comparison: "Kia Sportage vs VW Tiguan"

S1 (finding): "The Kia Sportage starts $4,000 cheaper than the Tiguan and comes with more standard safety features - making it the stronger value pick for most US buyers in 2025."

S2 (qualifier): "If cabin refinement and resale value matter more to you than upfront cost, the Tiguan makes a compelling case - here's exactly where each car wins."

Example - Explainer: "What Is Ceramic Coating and Is It Worth It?"

S1 (core fact): "A professional ceramic coating in the US costs between $500 and $2,500 and can last 2–5 years - significantly longer than a traditional wax, but it doesn't make your car scratch-proof."

S2 (preview): "Whether it's worth the price depends on how long you plan to keep the car and how much you care about paint maintenance - here's an honest breakdown."

Example - Product round-up: "Must-Have Car Accessories for Every Driver"

S1 (finding): "A few well-chosen accessories can meaningfully improve how a car feels to live with - and most of the best ones cost under $50."

S2 (qualifier): "This list covers the 12 most practically useful accessories for US drivers, skipping the gimmicks and focussing on what actually gets daily use."

✓ Do this

"Most drivers should rotate their tires every 5,000–7,500 miles - but if you drive a FWD car, the front tires carry a heavier load and wear faster, so 5,000 miles is the safer interval. This guide breaks down the right schedule for every drivetrain type, what happens if you skip it, and how to tell if your tires are already wearing unevenly."

✗ Not this

"When it comes to maintaining your car, there's a lot to keep track of. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know."

Section 05

H2 Sections - The Body

Sections should be shaped by the topic, not by a template. Every section must have a clear reason to exist.

Rules for every H2 section

Each H2 heading should be descriptive and keyword-containing where natural. Not just "FWD" - better: "FWD Cars: Rotate Every 5,000–7,500 Miles"
Cluster articles: 3–5 sections at 150–280 words each. Pillar articles: 5–7 sections at 200–350 words each.
Include at least one specific data point per section: a dollar figure, a mileage interval, a stat, a model year. General claims with no numbers are not useful.
End each section with a one-sentence practical takeaway - what the reader should do or remember based on this section.
H3 subheadings are allowed within long H2 sections, but only when a section genuinely breaks into distinct sub-points. Don't use H3s to add visual structure to short sections.
Sections don't need to follow a fixed formula. A "Must-Have Car Accessories" article will look completely different from a "Tire Rotation Schedules" article - that's correct. Let the topic determine the sections.

💡

How to think about section count: Ask yourself - "If I removed this section, would the reader have everything they need?" If yes, cut it. If no, keep it. Start with the sections that are definitely needed, then add more only if they add new information.

Section structure by article format:

Article Format	Suggested H2 Structure
Best X round-up	H2 per top pick → "How We Chose" → "What to Look For" → FAQ
How-to / explainer	H2 per major concept or step - shaped entirely by the topic's natural breakdown
Product accessories list	Grouped H2s by category (e.g. Safety, Tech, Comfort) or a numbered list within one H2
Reliability / ownership	"Overview" → "Common Issues" → "Owner Experience" → "Verdict" → FAQ
Pillar / 101 guide	H2 per major topic area, each with H3s where needed - functions like a mini-table of contents

Section 06

FAQ Section

3–5 Q+As that target the most-searched questions about the topic. This section directly feeds Google AI Overviews.

Rules

The H2 heading must be exactly: "Frequently Asked Questions" - this label is used for FAQPage schema in the CMS.
Questions must be written as real search queries - the exact phrasing someone types into Google. Not editorial angles. "What does it cost to wrap a car?" - yes. "What should consumers consider when evaluating wrapping options?" - no.
Answers must be 2–4 sentences, self-contained. They must make sense read in isolation without any surrounding article context.
Each answer must contain at least one specific fact - a number, a timeframe, a model name, a source reference.
At least one FAQ should target a "People Also Ask" query - something adjacent to the main topic that a reader would naturally wonder about after reading the article.
For articles where it's relevant, at least one FAQ should naturally mention a car model available on AutosMarket.

Example - Tire Rotation Schedules article

Q: How often should I rotate my tires?
A: Most manufacturers recommend rotating tires every 5,000–7,500 miles, or roughly every other oil change. The exact interval depends on your drive type - FWD cars often need more frequent rotations because the front tires handle both steering and power delivery.

Q: Can I rotate my own tires at home?
A: Yes, if you have a floor jack, jack stands, and a torque wrench. The main risk of DIY rotation is over- or under-tightening lug nuts - always torque to the manufacturer's spec (usually 80–100 ft-lbs for most passenger cars). If you're unsure, a shop rotation typically costs $20–$50.

Section 07

Key Takeaways

Placed before the FAQ. A practical summary that gives the reader something to act on before the Q&As.

Rules

3–5 bullet points. Each bullet = one practical, specific finding from the article.
Written as actionable statements, not passive observations. "Rotate FWD tires every 5,000 miles - earlier than the standard 7,500." Not "Tire rotation frequency depends on drive type."
A reader who only reads the Key Takeaways should leave with the article's most useful information.
Do not repeat the lede verbatim. The Key Takeaways add depth to the lede's summary - they expand on it with specifics from the body.
The heading should read: "Key Takeaways" as an H2.

Example - "Tire Rotation Schedules by Drive Type"

Key Takeaways

• Rotate FWD tires every 5,000 miles - front tires wear faster because they handle both steering and acceleration.
• RWD and AWD vehicles can go 7,500 miles between rotations, but check your owner's manual first - some manufacturers specify shorter intervals.
• 4WD trucks and SUVs should rotate every 6,000 miles and always use a full 5-tire rotation if a matching spare is included.
• If your tires show uneven wear before the rotation interval, don't wait - bring it to a shop. It may signal a wheel alignment issue.
• Most shops charge $20–$50 for a rotation; many include it free with an oil change - ask before booking.

Section 08

Internal Linking

Links to other AutosMarket blog articles should appear naturally within the body copy, using descriptive anchor text. No "see also" callouts or dedicated link sections.

Rules

Links to other blog articles go within the body text, as anchor text on a relevant phrase. Example: "…which is one reason tire rotation intervals differ by drive type - FWD cars wear front tires faster than RWD."
2–4 internal blog links per article for cluster articles. 4–8 for pillar articles (since pillars link out to their cluster articles).
Pillar ↔ cluster linking is required: every cluster article must link back to its parent pillar once, naturally in the body. Every pillar must link to each of its cluster articles in the body - not in a list at the end.
Anchor text should be descriptive and natural - 3–6 words that accurately describe the destination article's topic. Not "click here." Not the full article title verbatim unless it reads naturally.
Also link to AutosMarket model pages when a specific car model is mentioned for the first time. These count separately from the blog article link quota.
Do not link to the same destination twice in one article.

✓ Natural anchor text

"…especially for SUV drivers - AWD rotation schedules are different from FWD and require a different pattern."

✗ Forced or generic

"For more information about tire rotation, click here to read our tire rotation article."

Section 09

Model Mentions

Not every article will be about a specific model - but most articles can and should mention relevant models naturally in the body text.

Rules

Mention car models contextually - only when the model is a genuinely relevant example, not as a forced inclusion. A tire rotation article can mention "the Kia Sportage is a FWD car in its base trim" without it feeling like a product plug.
Prioritise models that AutosMarket actually carries: Kia (Niro, Sportage, Sorento), VW Tiguan, Hyundai Tucson, Mitsubishi (Mirage G4, Eclipse Cross), Alfa Romeo Giulia, Chrysler Pacifica, Audi A3, RAM 1500, Jeep models, Dodge models.
Link each model name to its AutosMarket model page on first mention: autosmarket.com/model/[brand]/[model]/. Link each model once per article only.
For accessory, maintenance, and how-to articles: 1–3 model mentions is ideal. More than that starts to feel like a product pitch rather than editorial content.
The mention should feel natural to a reader aged 30–55 who already owns a car - frame it as a practical example, not a recommendation to buy.

Example - Natural model mention in a non-model article

"AWD vehicles spread power across all four wheels constantly, which means tires wear more evenly than FWD - but you still can't skip rotations. A car like the Kia Sportage AWD will typically need a rotation every 7,500 miles according to Kia's own maintenance schedule."

Section 10

Keyword Frequency + Placement

Keywords should appear in the right places at the right frequency - never forced, never missing from where they matter most.

Keyword Type	Target Frequency	Required Placements	Notes
Primary keyword	3–5× total	H1, lede (sentence 1), at least 1 H2 heading, at least 1 FAQ question	Never in consecutive sentences. If the article is a pillar, also in the meta description.
Secondary keywords	1–2× each	H2 headings, body paragraphs, FAQ answers, Key Takeaways	Use naturally. If a secondary keyword sounds robotic in a sentence, rewrite the sentence rather than force it.
Long-tail / question keywords	1× per FAQ item	FAQ question text (verbatim search phrasing)	Also useful as H3 subheadings within long H2 sections.
Model names	Natural use	Body text on first mention → links to AM model page	Prioritise AutosMarket inventory models. 1–3 model mentions for non-model articles.
LSI / semantic keywords	Woven throughout	Body paragraphs, H3 headings	Related terms that search engines expect on a page about this topic. Example: a tire rotation article should naturally include "tread wear", "alignment", "lug nuts", "torque spec".

✓ Natural keyword use

"The Kia Sportage's tire rotation schedule depends on which drivetrain you have - the FWD base model needs rotation every 5,000 miles, while the AWD version can go 7,500."

✗ Keyword stuffing

"When looking at tire rotation schedules, tire rotation frequency depends on the tire rotation interval. Best tire rotation schedules for 2025 vary by car type."

Section 11

Images

Images improve engagement and carry SEO value through alt text. The rule is alternating sections - not every section, not just the featured image.

Placement + requirements

Featured image: Always present. Above or directly below the H1. Alt text must include the primary keyword.
Section images: Place within or directly after H2 sections 1, 3, and 5. Not every section. Target: 2–3 section images in a cluster article, 3–4 in a pillar.
File names: Descriptive. Use hyphens: tire-rotation-fwd-diagram.jpg - never IMG_4822.jpg.
Alt text: 8–12 words. Describes what's in the image including a keyword naturally. No keyword stuffing in alt text - it reads as spam.
Sources: Manufacturer press kits, licensed stock only. No watermarked images, no screenshots from other websites.

Featured Image Branding Standard

All featured images must be processed with the AutosMarket branded overlay template before upload. Raw stock photos or unbranded manufacturer images are not acceptable as featured images.

Use the standard Figma overlay template to apply the AutosMarket brand bar, logo placement, and colour treatment
The overlay ensures visual consistency across all blog posts and reinforces brand recognition when articles are shared on social media
Section images within the body do not need the overlay - only the featured image
Do not add the overlay yourself without using the approved template - ask the design team if you don't have access

Section 12

Audience + Tone

AutosMarket's readers are primarily US-based adults aged 30–55 who own or are buying a car. They're practical, time-pressed, and want straight answers - not automotive enthusiast content.

Who you're writing for

The typical AutosMarket reader is someone who:

Owns a car and deals with regular maintenance decisions
Is considering buying a new or used car in the next 6–18 months
Wants reliable, practical information - not enthusiast depth
Is comfortable with the basics but doesn't want to read technical specs without context
Will compare 2–3 sources before making a decision, so clarity and specificity build trust
Is based in the US - references to pricing, dealer networks, regulations, and driving conditions should be US-specific

Tone guidelines

Voice: The knowledgeable friend - direct, honest, practical. Not a salesperson, not an academic, not a gearhead.
Be direct about trade-offs. If one option is better for most people, say so plainly. If it genuinely depends, say what it depends on - specifically.
Respect the reader's time. No filler sentences. Every sentence should either add information or make the previous information clearer.
US-first references: Pricing in USD, distances in miles, fuel in mpg, temperature in °F. Don't use metric unless quoting a manufacturer spec that comes in metric.
Practical over aspirational: "Here's what you should do" beats "here's what you could imagine doing." The reader is making real decisions about real vehicles.
No em dashes. Use a plain hyphen or rewrite the sentence. Em dashes are a strong signal of AI-generated content.
No AI-cliche words. Never use: embark, delve, unleash, tapestry, game-changer, seamlessly, robust, elevate, navigate, revolutionize, bustling, vibrant, leverage, transformative, groundbreaking, it's worth noting, in today's world, in this article we will. These words flag AI-generated content immediately and undermine trust.

✓ Right tone

"If you drive a FWD car and skip tire rotations, you'll likely need new front tires 20,000 miles sooner than necessary - that's a $300–$600 cost that's easy to avoid."

✗ Wrong tone

"Tire rotation is one of the most crucial aspects of proactive vehicle ownership, and understanding the nuances of rotational patterns can empower drivers to optimise their total cost of vehicular operation."

Section 13

Pre-Submission Checklist

Click each item to mark it done. A strikethrough means it's confirmed. Reset anytime with the button below.

Structure

Featured image present; alt text includes primary keywordFile name is descriptive - no IMG_ filenames
H1 includes primary keyword; year included where relevant; 65 chars or fewer
Lede is exactly 2 sentences; answers the title immediately; no scene-setting opener
Correct section count: 3–5 H2 for cluster, 5–7 for pillarSection count matches the topic - not padded or cut short
Images placed after H2 sections 1, 3, and 5 - not after every section
FAQ section present, headed exactly "Frequently Asked Questions", 3–5 Q+As
Key Takeaways section before FAQ, 3–5 bullet points
Content Quality
Every H2 section ends with a one-sentence practical takeaway
At least one specific data point per section (price, mileage, stat, year, rating)
No unsupported qualitative claims ("excellent", "highly reliable") without a number or source
All prices in USD; distances in miles; fuel in mpg - US-market references throughout
No filler openers or AI-cliche words (embark, delve, seamlessly, game-changer, etc.)
No em dashes used anywhere in the article
Keywords + Links
Primary keyword in H1, lede, at least 1 H2, at least 1 FAQ question - 3–5 times total
Each car model name links to its AutosMarket model page on first mention only
2–4 internal blog links (cluster) or 4–8 (pillar) using natural anchor text in bodyPillar links to all its cluster articles; cluster links back to its parent pillar
No broken links - unresolved links marked as [TO LINK] for editor

✓ All items checked — article is ready to submit.

🏛

Pillar Article - AI Generation Prompt

For broad, comprehensive guides: "Car Maintenance 101", "Understanding Car Financing", "New Car vs Used Car". Fill in the 5 required variables (title, keywords, models, year). The AI determines the right section structure and suggests cluster article links for the editor. Copy the full block - comments included.

Before you use this prompt: Fill in H1_TITLE, PRIMARY_KW, SECONDARY_KW, RELATED_MODELS, and YEAR. The AI will determine the appropriate article structure, section breakdown, and suggest internal cluster article links based on the topic. For cluster articles, use the Cluster Prompt tab instead.

Variable Reference

Variable	What to put here	Example
`[H1_TITLE]`	Full article title, 65 chars max, includes primary keyword	Car Maintenance 101: The Complete Guide for US Drivers
`[PRIMARY_KW]`	Exact keyword from search tool (SEMrush/Ahrefs/GSC)	car wrap cost
`[SECONDARY_KW]`	2–3 related phrases, comma-separated	vinyl car wrap, car wrap maintenance, car wrap vs respray
`[RELATED_MODELS]`	2–3 AutosMarket models relevant to mention; or write NONE	Kia Sportage, VW Tiguan
`[YEAR]`	Current year	2025

PILLAR ARTICLE PROMPT - copy full block

# AutosMarket - PILLAR Article Generation Prompt # autosmarket.com | US Automotive | Fill all [VARIABLES] before sending ## ROLE You are a senior automotive content writer for AutosMarket.com - a free US car-to-dealer matching platform. Write a single, complete, publish-ready PILLAR article: a comprehensive, authoritative guide that serves as the "home base" for its topic on the AutosMarket blog. The article must be optimised for Google Search, Google AI Overviews, and LLM citation (Perplexity, ChatGPT). ## ARTICLE BRIEF H1 Title: [H1_TITLE] Primary keyword: [PRIMARY_KW] Secondary keywords: [SECONDARY_KW] Target word count: 1,800–2,500 words # aim for 2,000. Never pad; never cut a necessary section short AutosMarket models to mention (if relevant): [RELATED_MODELS] Year: [YEAR] ## TARGET AUDIENCE # Write for this reader in every sentence. Do not deviate. - US-based adults, primarily age 30–55, who own or are considering buying a car - Practical and time-pressed - they want clear, specific, actionable information - Not car enthusiasts - write for a knowledgeable friend, not a gearhead publication - Comfortable with basic car concepts, but not with deep technical specs without context - Making real decisions: about maintenance, purchases, upgrades, ownership costs - All references must be US-market: prices in USD, distances in miles, fuel in mpg, temp in °F - Write for longevity: avoid using the current year in the title or as a structural cue. Years can appear naturally inside the article as data points, model year references, or examples - but the article should remain accurate and useful without an annual update ## OUTPUT FORMAT Output the full article in Markdown. Use standard heading syntax: # H1 (once only - the article title) ## H2 (main sections, FAQ heading, Key Takeaways heading) ### H3 (sub-points within a long H2 section, only when genuinely needed) Output ONLY the article. No preamble ("Here is your article:"), no meta-commentary. Ready to paste into a CMS. ## MANDATORY ARTICLE STRUCTURE # Follow this exact section order. [IMAGE: descriptive alt text using primary keyword | suggested-filename.jpg] # Featured image placeholder. Format: [IMAGE: alt text | filename] # Alt text: 8–12 words describing the image naturally, including primary keyword # [H1_TITLE] **[LEDE - 2 sentences, written last]** # Sentence 1: The article's core finding or most useful fact - specific, not vague. # Sentence 2: A qualifier, contrast, or preview. Sets up the rest of the article. # NEVER start with: "When it comes to X…", "If you're a car owner…", "There's a lot to know about…" # NEVER use vague statements. Every claim in the lede must be verifiable. # Strategy: draft this LAST, after writing the full article. It will be better. # For explainers: state the central fact + why it matters. # For guides: state who the guide is for + what the reader leaves knowing. ## [H2 SECTION 1 - First major topic area] # Pillar sections: 5–7 H2 sections total. Let the topic determine the count. # Each section: 200–350 words. # H2 heading: descriptive, contains a secondary keyword or key phrase where natural. # Include at least one specific data point per section (cost, mileage, timeframe, stat). # Use H3 sub-headings within this section if it breaks into distinct sub-topics. # End section with a one-sentence practical takeaway for the reader. # Link to a relevant cluster article in this section if one is provided - using # natural anchor text within a sentence, not a "see also" callout. [IMAGE: alt text | filename.jpg] # Image after sections 1, 3, and 5 only - not every section. ## [H2 SECTION 2] # Same rules. Continue covering the topic's major areas. # If RELATED_MODELS are provided, mention 1–2 naturally here as practical examples. # Link each model to autosmarket.com/model/[brand]/[model]/ on first mention only. # Mention should feel like a real-world example, not a product recommendation. ## [H2 SECTION 3] [IMAGE: alt text | filename.jpg] ## [H2 SECTION 4] # Continue through sections 5, 6, 7 as the topic requires. # Do NOT add sections just to hit a word count. # Do NOT create a section that repeats what another section already covers. ## [H2 SECTION 5+] [IMAGE: alt text | filename.jpg] ## Key Takeaways # 3–5 bullet points. Placed before FAQ. # Each bullet: one actionable, specific statement. Practical - not passive. # "Rotate FWD tires every 5,000 miles" - YES. "Rotation frequency varies by drivetrain" - NO. # Reader should be able to act on every bullet point immediately. # Must not duplicate the lede - expand on it with specifics from the body. - [Takeaway 1] - [Takeaway 2] - [Takeaway 3] # Add up to 5 if warranted. ## Frequently Asked Questions # CRITICAL: Heading must be exactly "Frequently Asked Questions" - used for FAQPage schema. # 3–5 Q&A pairs. # Questions: exact phrasing of real Google search queries about this topic. # NOT editorial questions. "What does a car wrap cost in the US?" - YES. # "What factors influence the investment required for automotive customisation?" - NO. # Answers: 2–4 sentences. Self-contained - readable without the surrounding article. # Each answer must include at least one specific fact (number, source, model name, timeframe). # At least 1 FAQ should contain the primary keyword or a close variant. # At least 1 FAQ should be a "People Also Ask" adjacent question. # 1–2 FAQs should naturally reference a car model from RELATED_MODELS if provided. **Q: [Question 1]** A: [Answer - 2–4 sentences, self-contained, specific fact included] **Q: [Question 2]** A: [Answer] **Q: [Question 3]** A: [Answer] # Add Q4 and Q5 if the topic genuinely has more high-search questions. ## INTERNAL LINKING RULES # These links go inside body paragraphs - never as a standalone "see also" callout. Cluster article links: - Based on the article topic, identify 4–8 natural subtopics that could be standalone cluster articles - Within the body text, write 1–2 sentences that reference each subtopic and use that phrase as a natural internal link anchor - Format anchors as: [LINK: anchor text here → suggested cluster article title] - Example: "…which is why [LINK: car wrap color affects longevity → Car Wrap Colors: Which Last Longest?] in warmer climates." - This signals to the editor exactly where links should go and what cluster articles to create or link - Do NOT write: "For more on this, see our article on…" Model page links: - Link [RELATED_MODELS] to autosmarket.com/model/[brand]/[model]/ on first mention only - Never link the same model twice in one article ## KEYWORD RULES Primary keyword "[PRIMARY_KW]": Must appear in: H1 title, lede sentence 1, at least 1 H2 heading, at least 1 FAQ question Total frequency: 3–5 times across the full article Never in consecutive sentences Secondary keywords [SECONDARY_KW]: Each: 1–2 times - in H2 headings, body paragraphs, FAQ answers, Key Takeaways Use naturally - rewrite the sentence if the keyword sounds forced ## CONTENT QUALITY RULES ✗ Never write: "great value", "highly reliable", "excellent performance" without data to back it ✗ Never start a section or the article with a vague scene-setter ✗ Never pad sections to hit a word count - every sentence must add information ✗ Never repeat the same fact in multiple sections ✗ Never use metric units unless quoting a manufacturer spec that comes in metric ✗ Never use em dashes (—) in the article output - use a plain hyphen or rewrite the sentence ✗ Never use AI-cliche words: embark, delve, unleash, tapestry, game-changer, seamlessly, robust, elevate, navigate, revolutionize, bustling, vibrant, leverage, transformative, groundbreaking, it's worth noting, in today's world, in this article we will ✗ Never invent prices, stats, mileage figures, or specifications - flag with [VERIFY] if uncertain ✓ Always include a specific number or source for every factual claim ✓ Always note MSRP figures as "starting at" or "before destination charges" ✓ Always label fuel economy figures as EPA estimates ✓ Always cite the source for safety or reliability claims: NHTSA, IIHS, JD Power, Consumer Reports ✓ Always write for a practical US car owner aged 30–55 - not an enthusiast, not a beginner ## AIO / LLMO OPTIMISATION # These rules increase the likelihood of being cited by Google AI Overviews, # Perplexity, and ChatGPT browsing. 1. Lede must function as a standalone answer to the title query - extracted alone, it must make complete sense. 2. Each H2 section must contain at least one "citation-ready sentence": a short, specific, factual statement that makes sense quoted in isolation. Example: "A professional full car wrap in the US typically costs $2,500–$5,000 and lasts 5–7 years." 3. FAQ answers must be self-contained and answer the question directly in sentence 1. 4. Include at least one comparison or contrast statement per section where natural: "[A] does X; [B] does Y instead." These are the most-cited sentence structures in AI search results. 5. For topics with multiple options/tiers/types: include a summary table. Tables are extracted by AI systems for structured comparisons and dramatically improve citation rates. ## IMAGE PLACEHOLDER FORMAT [IMAGE: alt text here | filename-suggestion.jpg] Alt text: describes the image naturally + includes a keyword. 8–12 words max. Placement: after H2 sections 1, 3, 5 only. Featured image: directly below H1 title, before lede. ## FINAL OUTPUT CHECKLIST # Before completing, verify: □ H1 includes primary keyword, year if relevant, 65 chars or fewer □ Lede: 2 sentences, immediate answer, no scene-setting, written LAST □ 5–7 H2 sections, 200–350 words each, each ending with a practical takeaway □ H3 used only where a section genuinely breaks into sub-points □ Images: after sections 1, 3, 5 only □ Primary keyword: in H1, lede, ≥1 H2, ≥1 FAQ question, 3–5× total □ Each secondary keyword: 1–2× each, natural placement □ Each cluster article linked once in body - natural anchor text □ Each model linked to AM model page on first mention only □ Key Takeaways: before FAQ, 3–5 actionable bullets □ FAQ: headed "Frequently Asked Questions", 3–5 self-contained Q&As with specific facts □ No unsupported qualitative claims □ All references US-market: USD, miles, mpg, °F □ Any uncertain fact flagged with [VERIFY]

After generating: Run the output against the checklist above. Verify every price, stat, and figure against manufacturer sites, EPA.gov, NHTSA.gov, or JD Power before publishing. Flag anything marked [VERIFY] for manual fact-check.

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Cluster Article - AI Generation Prompt

For focused, specific articles: product round-ups, how-to explainers, buying guides, brand overviews, segment guides. Fill in the required variables. The AI determines article format and parent pillar. For broad 101-style guides, use the Pillar Prompt tab instead.

Before you use this prompt: Fill in the required variables. The AI will determine the right article format, suggest the parent pillar, and indicate where internal links should go. Never leave a required variable bracket empty.

Variable Reference

Variable	What to put here	Example
`[H1_TITLE]`	Full article title, 65 chars max	Tire Rotation Schedules by Drive Type: FWD, RWD, AWD + 4WD
`[PRIMARY_KW]`	Exact keyword from search tool	tire rotation schedule
`[SECONDARY_KW]`	2–3 related phrases	how often to rotate tires, FWD tire rotation, AWD tire rotation
`[RELATED_BLOG_ARTICLES]`	2–3 other blog articles to link to internally; or write NONE	"When to Replace Your Tires", "Wheel Alignment: Signs + Cost"
`[RELATED_MODELS]`	1–3 AutosMarket models relevant to mention naturally; or write NONE	Kia Sportage AWD, VW Tiguan
`[YEAR]`	Current year	2025

CLUSTER ARTICLE PROMPT - copy full block

# AutosMarket - CLUSTER Article Generation Prompt # autosmarket.com | US Automotive | Fill all [VARIABLES] before sending ## ROLE You are a senior automotive content writer for AutosMarket.com - a free US car-to-dealer matching platform. Write a single, complete, publish-ready CLUSTER article: a focused, in-depth piece on one specific topic that lives within a broader content pillar on the AutosMarket blog. The article must be optimised for Google Search, Google AI Overviews, and LLM citation. ## ARTICLE BRIEF H1 Title: [H1_TITLE] Primary keyword: [PRIMARY_KW] Secondary keywords: [SECONDARY_KW] Target word count: 1,000–1,500 words # aim for 1,200–1,200. Don't pad; don't cut necessary content. Other blog articles to link to: [RELATED_BLOG_ARTICLES] AutosMarket models to mention: [RELATED_MODELS] Year: [YEAR] ## TARGET AUDIENCE # Write for this specific reader. Every sentence should serve them. - US-based adults, primarily age 30–55, who own or are considering buying a car - Practical and time-pressed - they want specific, actionable information - Not car enthusiasts or professionals - knowledgeable friend tone, not technical manual - Comfortable with basic car ownership but not with jargon-heavy specs without context - Making real decisions: maintenance, purchases, accessories, or safety-related choices - All references US-market: prices in USD, distances in miles, fuel in mpg, temp in °F - Write for longevity: do not use the current year in the title. Years may appear within the article as natural references (model years, recent data, examples) but the article should not require an annual rewrite to stay accurate ## OUTPUT FORMAT Full article in Markdown. Heading syntax: # H1 (once only) ## H2 (main sections, FAQ heading, Key Takeaways heading) ### H3 (sub-points within H2, only when genuinely needed) Output ONLY the article. No preamble, no commentary. Ready to paste into a CMS. ## MANDATORY ARTICLE STRUCTURE [IMAGE: descriptive alt text using primary keyword | filename.jpg] # Featured image placeholder - always first # [H1_TITLE] **[LEDE - 2 sentences, written last]** # Sentence 1: The core finding, recommendation, or key fact. Specific. Not vague. # Sentence 2: Qualifier, contrast, or preview of what the article covers. # NEVER start with: "If you're a car owner…", "There's a lot to consider…", "In this article…" # For how-to/explainer articles: S1 = central fact. S2 = who should read this and why. # For comparison articles: S1 = winner + specific reason. S2 = main trade-off. # For product round-ups: S1 = best pick + why. S2 = buying principle or caveat. # Write this LAST after completing the full article draft. ## [H2 SECTION 1] # 3–5 H2 sections total. Determine the right number based on the topic - do not force # sections that don't add new information. # Each section: 150–280 words. # H2 heading: descriptive and keyword-containing where natural. Not just a label. # Include at least one specific data point per section. # End each section with a one-sentence practical takeaway. # Link to PARENT_PILLAR naturally in this or another section using anchor text. # Example: "…which we cover in detail in our complete car maintenance guide." # Link to RELATED_BLOG_ARTICLES naturally in body text using descriptive anchor text. # If RELATED_MODELS are provided, mention 1–2 as practical real-world examples. # Link each to autosmarket.com/model/[brand]/[model]/ on first mention only. [IMAGE: alt text | filename.jpg] # After sections 1, 3, and 5 only. Not every section. ## [H2 SECTION 2] ## [H2 SECTION 3] [IMAGE: alt text | filename.jpg] ## [H2 SECTION 4 - include only if the topic warrants it] ## [H2 SECTION 5 - include only if needed; 5 is the max] [IMAGE: alt text | filename.jpg] ## Key Takeaways # Placed before FAQ. # 3–5 bullet points. Actionable and specific. # "Rotate FWD tires every 5,000 miles" - YES. "Rotation frequency varies" - NO. # Each bullet point should give the reader something to do or remember immediately. # Do not duplicate the lede - expand on it with the article's most useful specifics. - [Takeaway 1] - [Takeaway 2] - [Takeaway 3] ## Frequently Asked Questions # Heading MUST be exactly "Frequently Asked Questions" - used for FAQPage schema. # 3–5 Q&A pairs. # Questions: real search queries - what would someone type into Google after reading this article? # Not editorial questions, not conversational questions. Match search intent exactly. # Answers: 2–4 sentences. Self-contained. Include a specific fact in each. # At least 1 Q must include the primary keyword or a close variant. # At least 1 Q should be a tangentially related "People Also Ask" question. # At least 1 Q should naturally mention a model from RELATED_MODELS if provided. **Q: [Question 1]** A: [Self-contained answer, 2–4 sentences, includes a specific fact] **Q: [Question 2]** A: [Answer] **Q: [Question 3]** A: [Answer] # Add Q4–Q5 if genuine high-search questions exist for this topic. ## SECTION STRUCTURE GUIDANCE # Determine the most appropriate format based on the article title and topic. # Use the guide below as a reference. Adapt based on what the topic actually needs. # State the format you are using at the top of the article (as an HTML comment). Product Round-up (e.g. "Must-Have Car Accessories for Every Driver"): Group accessories by category (Safety / Tech / Comfort / Convenience) as H2s OR use a numbered list approach within 3–4 themed H2 sections Avoid one H2 per product - too fragmented for 12 items How-to Explainer (e.g. "Tire Rotation Schedules by Drive Type"): H2 per drive type or major concept - let the topic's natural breakdown determine the sections Use H3s within each H2 if sub-points exist (e.g. "FWD: Rotation Pattern" + "FWD: Frequency") Brand Overview (e.g. "Best Korean Car Brands: Kia vs Hyundai in 2025"): H2 per brand → "Lineup Comparison" → "Which Brand Is Right for You?" → FAQ ## INTERNAL LINKING RULES All internal links go inside body paragraphs - never as standalone callouts or "see also" boxes. Parent pillar link: - Based on the article topic, identify the most logical parent pillar this article belongs under - Include one natural sentence referencing that broader topic, formatted as: [LINK: anchor text → suggested pillar title] - Example: "…for a full breakdown, see [LINK: our complete car maintenance guide → Car Maintenance 101]" - The editor will confirm or adjust the suggested pillar Other blog article links: - Link to each article in [RELATED_BLOG_ARTICLES] once, using natural anchor text - Insert only where the link adds genuine context for the reader - Never link just to hit a link count - it must feel like a natural recommendation Model page links: - Link [RELATED_MODELS] to autosmarket.com/model/[brand]/[model]/ on first mention only - Each model: linked once per article, never twice ## KEYWORD RULES Primary keyword "[PRIMARY_KW]": Must appear in: H1, lede sentence 1, ≥1 H2 heading, ≥1 FAQ question Total: 3–5 times across the full article Never consecutive sentences Secondary keywords [SECONDARY_KW]: Each: 1–2 times - H2 headings, body paragraphs, FAQ answers, Key Takeaways Rewrite the sentence if a keyword sounds forced ## CONTENT QUALITY RULES ✗ Never use unsupported qualitative claims ("great", "excellent", "top-rated") without data ✗ Never start the article or a section with scene-setting filler ✗ Never add a section to hit a word count - every section must add new information ✗ Never repeat the same fact across multiple sections ✗ Never use metric units unless quoting a manufacturer spec that comes in metric ✗ Never use em dashes (—) in the article output - use a plain hyphen or rewrite the sentence ✗ Never use AI-cliche words: embark, delve, unleash, tapestry, game-changer, seamlessly, robust, elevate, navigate, revolutionize, bustling, vibrant, leverage, transformative, groundbreaking, it's worth noting, in today's world, in this article we will ✗ Never invent prices, stats, or specifications - flag uncertain figures with [VERIFY] ✓ Always include a specific number, timeframe, or source per factual claim ✓ Always label MSRP figures as "starting at" or "before destination charges" ✓ Always label fuel economy figures as EPA estimates ✓ Always cite reliability and safety data sources: NHTSA, IIHS, JD Power, Consumer Reports ✓ Always write for a practical US car owner aged 30–55, not an enthusiast ## AIO / LLMO OPTIMISATION 1. Lede stands alone as a complete answer to the title query - extractable and self-sufficient. 2. Every H2 section contains at least one "citation-ready sentence": short, specific, factual. Example: "FWD cars need tire rotation every 5,000–6,000 miles - about 30% more often than RWD." 3. FAQ answers: answer the question in sentence 1, elaborate in sentences 2–3. 4. Include contrast/comparison sentences where natural: "X does Y; Z handles it differently." 5. If article covers multiple options/types: include at least one summary table or structured list. Tables are extracted by AI systems and significantly increase citation rate. ## IMAGE PLACEHOLDER FORMAT [IMAGE: alt text | filename-suggestion.jpg] Alt text: natural description + keyword. 8–12 words. No stuffing. Placement: after H2 sections 1, 3, and 5 only. Featured image: directly below H1. ## FINAL OUTPUT CHECKLIST □ H1 includes primary keyword; year where relevant; 65 chars max □ Lede: 2 sentences, immediate specific answer, no scene-setter, written LAST □ 3–5 H2 sections - count driven by topic, not word target □ Each section 150–280 words; ends with a one-sentence practical takeaway □ H3 used only where a section genuinely has sub-points □ Images: after sections 1, 3, and 5 only □ Primary keyword: H1, lede, ≥1 H2, ≥1 FAQ question, 3–5× total □ Secondary keywords: 1–2× each, natural placement □ Parent pillar linked once in body - natural anchor text □ Other blog articles linked in body - natural anchor text, not callouts □ Models linked to AM model pages on first mention only □ Key Takeaways: before FAQ, 3–5 actionable bullets, not passive observations □ FAQ: "Frequently Asked Questions", 3–5 self-contained Q&As, each with a specific fact □ No unsupported qualitative claims □ All references US-market: USD, miles, mpg, °F □ Uncertain figures flagged with [VERIFY]

After generating: Verify every price, stat, mileage figure, and model specification against the manufacturer's website, EPA.gov, NHTSA.gov, or Consumer Reports before publishing. Replace any [VERIFY] flags with confirmed figures.